1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1996 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1996 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (200 HP) has 125 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 547 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Pontiac Firebird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (103 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1996 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda 323 | 1996 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | 323 | Firebird |
Year Released | 1989 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1324 cc | 3790 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 75 HP | 200 HP |
Torque | 103 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 71.1 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.4:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1502 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1900 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 58 L |